FAMnerd is an iPhone app that can be used for both Natural Family Planning (NFP) and the Fertility Awareness Method (FAM).

The main difference between NFP and FAM is that NFP doesn’t allow for the use of barrier methods of birth control (like condoms and diaphragms) during the fertile phase, and FAM does. NFP is generally used by folks who don’t agree with the use of contraception, particularly Catholics. FAM doesn’t have any religious affiliation.

Wherever you choose to stand on barrier methods, FAMnerd will work for you. FAMnerd allows you to record intercourse on your chart, and choose whether it was protected (like with a barrier method), or unprotected. FAMnerd includes charting rules that will work with both FAM and NFP, and allows you to choose the rules that best meet your needs.

Whether you’re trying to get pregnant, really needing to stay not pregnant, or somewhere in between, whether you use FAM or NFP, FAMnerd will make it easy to chart on your iPhone.

There’s been some buzz online recently about “green” birth control. While I’m glad that FAM was recognized as a form of birth control at all, its efficacy was once again underestimated – as was its “greenness.”

And even though FAM allows for the use of barrier methods like condoms, caps, sponges and diaphragms, it doesn’t require them. FAM can still be practiced successfully by abstaining during the fertile phase. This is the basis of NFP. Without barrier methods, the only material object required to practice FAM successfully is a thermometer. Digital thermometer batteries last for years, meaning very minimal waste.

Sterilization seems fairly green, but what about the gloves, equipment, scrubs or other medical supplies that would be used in the surgery?